Kyoto Travel Guides

Kyoto Prefecture, home to the world-class tourist destination of Kyoto City, is characterized by its long north-south length. In Kyoto City, you can visit many famous temples such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-dera Temple (Rokuon-ji Temple), and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.

You can also tour around the Arashiyama area and Kibune area to enjoy the beauty of nature, and the Gion area for walking around town!
Outside of Kyoto City, Uji City is home to the Byodoin Phoenix Hall, a national treasure, and Miyazu City is home to Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan.

To enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto Prefecture

Kyoto Prefecture, which includes the world-famous tourist destination Kyoto City, is geographically long from north to south, each showing a different aspect of the prefecture. With nationally renowned temples and shrines such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kinkaku-dera Temple (Rokuon-ji Temple), both registered as World Heritage sites, Kyoto City is one of the best tourist areas in Japan where you can experience the traditional beauty, history and culture of Japan.

It is also an excellent destination for city walking, as you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient capital on the Noryo-doko (summer evening bath) on the Kamo River that runs through Kyoto City, immerse yourself in shopping for specialty products at Nishiki Market, or indulge in fine sake and banquets in the Gion area.

In the Arashiyama area, visitors can enjoy strolling through the bamboo forests of Sagano in spring, the Daimonji Gozan Okuribi bonfire in summer, the fiery autumn leaves in fall, and the snow-covered Togetsu Bridge in winter.

In the suburbs of Kyoto, there is the Ohara area famous for Sanzenin Temple and the Kurama area with its mysterious atmosphere of Kibune Shrine.

There are also many places of interest outside of Kyoto City, such as Uji City with the national treasure Byodoin Phoenix Hall, Miyazu City with Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, Ine Town with its beautiful streets of boathouses protruding from the seashore, Kameoka City with its river cruises, trolley trains and Yunohana hot springs, and Maizuru City famous for its red-brick warehouses. Maizuru City is famous for its red brick warehouses.

History of Kyoto Prefecture

The area that is now Kyoto Prefecture was called Yamashiro-no-kuni, Tamba-no-kuni, and Tango-no-kuni in the old name of the country, and in the Edo period, it consisted of more than 10 clans, including the Yodo clan, Tamba-Kameyama clan, Fukuchiyama clan, Sasayama clan, and Miyazu clan.

After the capital moved to Heian-kyo in 794, it served as the capital of Japan until 1869, when the government moved to Tokyo after the Great Restoration, and was called "the capital of a thousand years.

Seventeen buildings that symbolize Kyoto culture, including Byodoin Temple (Uji City), which was converted from the villa of Fujiwara no Michinaga to a temple, Kinkakuji Temple (Kita Ward, Kyoto City), a representative building of Muromachi culture, and Nijo Castle (Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City), built as an inn for Tokugawa Ieyasu when he visited Kyoto, are registered as World Cultural Heritage sites as "Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto". The long history of Kyoto has been handed down to the present day.

Local Gourmet, Food Culture, and Specialties of Kyoto Prefecture

In Kyoto City, the ancient capital where the Heian-kyo capital was located, the food culture of the nobles, samurai families, and temples is deeply rooted. In addition to traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, visitors can enjoy vegetarian dishes such as yudofu and yuba (bean curd) dishes, and hamo (eel) dishes during the summer.

There is also an abundance of fashionable restaurants in Kawaramachi, Ponto-cho, and Gion, including lunch and obanzai served in Kyoto machiya houses.

Kyoto, with the highest per capita consumption of bread in Japan, is also a fierce battleground for bakeries. In addition, there are many B-class gourmet restaurants to enjoy, including Kyoto ramen with white soup, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, a la carte Western cuisine, and curry yakisoba in Miyazu.

Uji City's green tea is considered one of the three best teas in Japan, and there are many sweets made from matcha green tea. On the other hand, if you look to the north facing the Sea of Japan, you can enjoy seafood such as yellowtail shabu (yellowtail shabu) made with winter cold yellowtail and snow crabs (mani-gani), which are very rare.

Kyoto also offers an abundance of souvenirs, from Kyoto pickles and other specialty items such as chirimen sansho (dried Japanese pepper) and saba (mackerel sushi) to Japanese sweets such as yatsuhashi (bridge with eight bridges), mamemochi (bean cake), kompeito (sweet potato), kintsuba (sweet bean jelly), and warabimochi (rice cakes), to name but a few.

Recommended spots for Kyoto

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple

National Treasure and World Heritage Site! One of Japan’s Leading Temples

Kiyomizu-dera Temple has a long history dating back to the Nara period (778).The temple grounds are located halfway up Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the temple and cover an area of approximately 130,000 square meters. The main hall, also called "Kiyomizu-no-butai" (stage of Kiyomizu), which was rebuilt in the early Edo period, is a national treasure,It is registered as one of the UNESCO Worl...»

Hozu River Rafting

Rafting down the Hozu River is a thrilling experience with the beauty of the valley

The Hozu River (Katsura River) flows through the Hozu Gorge, which is designated as a nature park, and a boat ride down the river from Kameoka to Arashiyama in Kyoto, a distance of about 16 km, takes two hours. The river is lined with giant rocks and boulders, and the varied scenery can be enjoyed from the water, as the river flows gently and quietly in one area and splashes down steep rapids in ...»

Kinkakuji Temple

Golden Shariden (Hall of Relic)

Kinkakuji Temple, officially called Hokusan Rokuon Zenji, is a temple with grounds of more than 40,000 square meters.The temple is generally called "Kinkakuji Temple" because of its famous "Kinkaku (Golden Pavilion)," which is a two or three-story building covered in gold leaf and enshrined with the bones of Buddha. The Rokuonji (Kinkakuji) Garden, which is centered around the Golden Pavilion, is...»

Amanohashidate

Peek under the crotch for a spectacular view

Amanohashidate is a scenic spot known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan.Amanohashidate is known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan.The name "Amanohashidate" comes from the fact that the sandbar, which separates the north and south sides of the bay in an arch, looks like a bridge spanning the heavens when viewed upside down. Amanohashidate stretches as long as 3.6 kilomete...»

Toji Temple

A World Heritage Site featuring Japan’s tallest five-story pagoda and the oldest group of esoteric Buddhist sculptures

Toji Temple, officially known as Kyoo Gokokuji Temple, is one of the East and West official temples built in 794 after the capital was relocated to Heian-kyo. It is located to the east and west of Rajomon, the main gate of the capital. It was later designated by Kukai as the fundamental center of Shingon esoteric Buddhism, a role it still plays today. To-ji Temple has maintained its original layo...»

Bamboo grove path

A landscape of bamboo groves that cover the sky

The view of bamboo trees standing in neat rows high in the sky and the fresh green covering the sky is breathtaking. The sound of leaves rustling in the wind and the pale light shining through the gaps between the bamboos make this one of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions, where you can feel the Japanese atmosphere....»

Yasaka Pagoda

A symbol in a traditional townscape

The approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple is lined with traditional architecture that attracts a steady stream of tourists,The five-story pagoda with a pure Japanese style, hon-gawara roof stands tall in this neighborhood.The 46-meter-high five-story pagoda is a landmark. The five-story pagoda, called "Yasaka-no-to" (Yasaka Pagoda), is located in the precincts of Hokanji Temple,The temple itself is co...»

Ginkakuji Temple

A grand mansion built by a shogun in the Muromachi period

Also known as Ginkakuji Temple, its official name is Jishoji Temple.It was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th barbarian general of the Muromachi Shogunate, as his villa "Higashiyama-den" after he handed over the shogunate to his son.He lived an elegant life of seclusion, enjoying calligraphy, painting, and the tea ceremony. Higashiyama-den was built in 1482,After the death of Ashikaga Yoshimasa...»

Togetsu Bridge

Symbol of Arashiyama, one of the most famous places in Kyoto

This bridge spans the Katsura River at the foot of Arashiyama, a 382-meter-high mountain famous for its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. The combination of the gently flowing Katsura River and Arashiyama in the background is beautiful,Arashiyama is a symbolic sightseeing spot in Kyoto, used for filming of movies and TV dramas and in tourist brochures. At night, the bridge is illuminated by ele...»

Sagano Trolley Train

A train trip with a view of the beauty of the valley from season to season

This is a 25-minute train ride in which you can view the Hozukyo Gorge, designated as a nature park, while being rocked by a trolley train at a leisurely speed. You can enjoy the seasonal scenery of mountain cherry blossoms, azaleas, and dazzling fresh greenery in spring, cool air in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy scenery in winter....»

Kifune Shrine

A power spot that brings good luck in marriage

Kifune Shrine is located at the source of the Kamo River flowing through Kyoto,Kifune Shrine is the head shrine of about 500 Kifune Shrines in Japan, which are dedicated to the God of Water. The shrine is located in a thickly forested gorge between Mt,In front of the shrine flows the Kibune River, which is located upstream from the Kamo River. The date of construction is unknown, but it is belie...»

Fushimi Inari Taisha

The vermilion torii gate with endless wishes

The main shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Known as "Inari-san," the shrine is one of the most visited in Japan and has a long history. The path leading from behind the main shrine to the top of the mountain is called "Senbon-torii," or one thousand torii.The path from behind the main shrine to the top of the mountain is lined with endless vermilion torii gates called "Senbon-torii" (thousand...»

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine

A shrine revered by the imperial family along with Ise Jingu Shrine

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine was built in 859 and is one of the three major Hachimangu shrines in Japan,It is one of the three major Hachimangu shrines in Japan, and was revered by the imperial family as one of the two sacred shrines along with Ise Jingu Shrine. It is also a representative shrine that protects the back ogimon (southwest) of Kyoto.It was considered important along with Enryakuji T...»

Koke-dera Saihoji Temple

Fantastic garden covered with about 120 species of moss

Saiho-ji Temple is called "moss temple" because of the impressive moss that covers the temple grounds like a carpet of green. The garden is a karesansui garden created by Soseki Muso, a Zen monk and one of the world's greatest gardeners of all time, who perfected the Zen garden or karesansui style,The other is a karesansui garden with a pond at its center and beautiful mosses. Both gardens are d...»

Sanzenin Temple

A hidden village in Kyoto where you can forget your daily life in the moss garden

One of the five Tendai monasteries. One of the most sacred places in the northern part of Kyoto. The main hall, Oujogokurakuin (a temple with a significant cultural value), is famous. The hydrangeas in the rainy season and maple trees in the fall are magnificent. ...»

Noryoyo-doko along the Kamogawa River

Kyoto cuisine served on the floor at night while enjoying the cool breeze of the river

Noryo-doko along the Kamogawa River is a place where the generous and chic culture of the townspeople of the Edo period has been passed down from generation to generation. About 100 restaurants are open, offering a variety of cuisines including Kyoto cuisine, Italian, French, and café food, while enjoying the waterside scenery with the mountains in the background....»

Nonomiya Shrine

A sacred place associated with the Imperial Family that appears in the setting of The Tale of Genji

The shrine is located in the famous "bamboo grove path" in Sagano, Arashiyama, and is dedicated to the deities of learning, fulfillment of love, and safe delivery of children. Around the year 1000, it was also the setting of a long story "The Tale of Genji" written by Murasaki Shikibu in the Heian period (794-1185), "The Tale of Genji," in the Kengi no Maki volume, and is popular as a shrine for ...»

Byodoin Phoenix Hall (Hou-ou-do)

Famous for the 10-yen coin, the paradise of the Heian period

Byodoin Temple was built in 1052.It is widely known around the world for the Phoenix Hall, which is depicted on the 10-yen coin located within its precincts. The statue of the Phoenix on the main roof of the Hall of Phoenixes is depicted on the reverse side of the 10,000 yen bill, and the temple is very familiar to Japanese people.The temple is very familiar to Japanese people. Fujiwara no Yorim...»

Gion Festival

The Gion Festival is a festival that began about 1,100 years ago as a prayer to ward off an epidemic. The festival lasts about one month. The climax of the festival is the Yamaboko procession on the 17th and 24th. Both floats are decorated with beautiful tapestries, spelling weaving, Nishijin brocade, and other art works. On the 17th, there will be paid seats for spectators to watch the procession...»

Chionji Temple

Pray for academic achievement and success in school

Located on the south side of Amanohashidate, a scenic spot known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan,Amanohashidate, which is known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. The temple's principal deity is Monju Bosatsu (Manjusri), who is said to be in charge of wisdom, and is said to be the "wisdom of three people coming together.The temple has long been worshipped as a source o...»

Amanohashidate Viewland

Amusement park where you can see a dragon soaring in the sky

Amanohashidate Viewland is an amusement park with an observatory from which visitors can view Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan.Located on the summit of Bunshuzan Mountain on the south side of Amanohashidate, it offers a variety of rides for children. The view from Amanohashidate Viewland is called "Hiryu-kan" (flying dragon view) because it looks like a dragon soaring i...»

Jingoji Temple

Jingo-ji Temple is an old Shingon Buddhist temple located halfway up Mt. Jingo-ji Temple is an old Shingon Sect temple located halfway up Mt. Many Buddhist statues and paintings from the Heian and Kamakura periods remain, including the Yakushi Nyorai statue, a national treasure. The temple bell (national treasure) is one of the three most famous bells in Japan. The temple grounds and surrounding a...»

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Tenjin-san.

The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, known as the god of learning. This shrine is the head shrine of all Tenmangu shrines in Japan. The main shrine and worship hall, both national treasures, are representative of Momoyama culture. Remnants of the shrine's original moat can be seen in the shrine grounds, which have been designated as a historic site. The 25th of every month is the "Tenjin...»

Tenryuji Temple

Zen temple known for its beautiful garden

Tenryu-ji was founded in 1343 by Ashikaga Takauji, a barbarian general, to mourn the loss of Emperor Godaigo.As a Zen temple associated with the Ashikaga shogunate and Emperor Godaigo, it has been ranked first among the five temples of Kyoto. The garden around the central pond was created by Soseki Muso, a Zen monk and one of the world's greatest gardeners of all time, who perfected the Zen garde...»

Yasaka Shrine

A power spot for love and beauty

Yasaka Shrine is nicknamed "Yasaka-san" (meaning "Yasaka-san" in Japanese) and is known for its "Gion Matsuri" festival.Gion Festival, one of the three major festivals in Japan, began as a shrine festival. The main shrine, rebuilt by Tokugawa Ietsuna in 1654, is a national treasure,The west tower gate, south tower gate, dance hall, Tamamitsu Inari shrine, and ema hall, which were rebuilt in 1497,...»

Motorikyu Nijo Castle

The place where the Edo Period began and ended

Nijo Castle, a plain castle, was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603. Ieyasu was the victor in the Battle of Sekigahara.Ieyasu built Nijo Castle to protect Kyoto and to serve as a lodging house for his troops traveling to Kyoto,In the same year, Ieyasu was inaugurated as the first shogun of the Edo shogunate. At the end of the Edo period, the 15th shogun of the Edo shogunate, Yoshinobu Tokugawa, an...»

Shogun's Mound Seiryu-den

Shorenin Monzeki, located within walking distance of Gion, is a temple that is said to have its origin in Seirenbo, one of the priests' residences built by Saicho, the founder of the Tendai sect, at the top of Mt. The temple is known for enshrining the national treasure Ao-Fudo Myoo (Blue Fudo), which is enshrined in the Shogunzuka Seiryuden, which was established in October 2014 in the Tobichi-k...»

Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho)

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is located in the center of Kyoto City. The Kyoto Gosho is a vast area measuring approximately 700 meters from east to west and 1,300 meters from north to south, and during the Edo period (1603-1867), it was an official town with more than 200 residences of various sizes.In 1869 (Meiji 2), after the capital was moved to Tokyo, Emperor Meiji, deeply saddened by the rapidly...»

Heian Jingu Shrine

The shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of the capital to Heian, and is flanked by the 24-meter high Otorii (Grand Gate), a registered tangible cultural property of Japan. The shrine pavilion, painted in bright vermilion and green, is modeled after the Chodoin Temple. The vast garden is home to rare bird species, the Mino tortoise, which grows grass on...»

Rengeoin Sanjusangendo

Sanjusangendo is a Buddhist temple outside the precincts of Myohoin Temple and is lined with 1,001 statues of the Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. It is called Sanjusangendo because there are 33 pillars in the inner sanctuary. It is home to many national treasures and important cultural properties, including statues of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Kannon, standing statues of the ...»

Kamigamo Shrine

One of the oldest shrines in Kyoto and a World Heritage Site

Kamigamo Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto with a history dating back to 677.Its official name is Kamowakeikazuchi-jinja, and together with Kamo-gozo-jinja (Shimogamo-jinja), also located in Kyoto City, it is called Kamo-jinja. On the shrine grounds, the main hall and gonden, rebuilt in 1863, are national treasures,Most of the 34 buildings, many of which were constructed during the Edo...»

Shimogamo Jinja Shrine

A World Heritage Site with a vast forest

One of the oldest shrines in Kyoto,Its official name is Kamomioja Shrine.Together with Kamo Betsurai-jinja Shrine (Kamigamo Shrine), also located in Kyoto City, the two shrines are called Kamo Jinja. The shrine grounds are designated as a historic site,Kamo Goso-jinja Two buildings, the East Main Hall and the West Main Hall, are designated as National Treasures,The two East and West Main Building...»

Tofukuji Temple

One of the best places in Kyoto to view the autumn leaves

Tofukuji Temple is the head temple of the Tofukuji School of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, located in Higashiyama Ward. It is a famous temple that conveys the Zen Buddhism culture of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, and is ranked fourth among the "Five Temples of Kyoto" established after Ashikaga Yoshimitsu built Shokokuji Temple.The oldest and largest temple complex in Japan was so magnificent that it ...»

Kibune no Kawadoko

Enjoy Kyoto cuisine in a cool atmosphere in a secluded spot in Kyoto

Also called "Noryoyoko," this is a summer tradition in the Kansai region. The wooden floors are set up just above the Kibune River, the source of the Kamo River,The breeze gently moves through the verdant trees in the mountain gorge,You can enjoy Kyoto cuisine while listening to the breezes of the Kibune River and the murmuring of the river....»

Gozan Okuribi (Bonfire on Five Mountains)

At 8:00 p.m., the "Dai" is first lit on Nyoigatake (Mt. Higashi), followed by the "Myohou" on Mt. The fire burns quietly for about 30 minutes....»

Daikakuji Temple

Daikakuji Temple is an old temple in Kyoto that retains the atmosphere of a detached palace

Daikakuji Temple is an old temple in Kyoto that retains the appearance of a detached palace of Emperor Saga. The buildings in the style of a imperial palace stand in a row facing Osawa Pond. The temple is also known as the head temple of the Saga school of flower arrangement. Experience sutra copying in the early morning....»

Jojakkoji Temple

Beautiful contrast of light and shadow reflecting the four seasons

The site of Fujiwara Teika's Shiguretei is famous for the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu. Located halfway up Mt. Ogura with beautiful autumn leaves, this is the temple where Nisshin (Shin) Shonin lived in seclusion. The temple has a multi-purpose pagoda and Myokendo, both of which are designated as important cultural properties....»

Suzumushi Temple (Kegonji Temple)

The temple that gives you a hint to live better echoes with the voices of 8,000 bell bugs

Founded in 1723 as a temple of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. Today it is a Rinzai sect temple. Located at the foot of Mt. Matsuo in the western part of Kyoto City, the temple commands a panoramic view of the city from the vantage point at the top of the stone steps. The temple's eighth abbot felt enlightened by the sound of the bellbugs chirping in unison, and this was the impetus for keeping them. ...»

Ninna-ji Temple

An old temple famous for “Omuro-zakura” (cherry blossoms in the Omuro area), which was the residence of the imperial prince Hochin’o

The temple was founded by Emperor Uda in 888, and was later called Omuro Gosho, which means "Imperial Residence" in Japanese. The temple is a highly prestigious monzeki temple, and is mentioned in many classics such as "Tsurezuregusa" and "Hojoki". The temple is a prestigious World Heritage site. Passing through the vermilion-lacquered Naka-mon Gate (Important Cultural Property), visitors will se...»

Kuramadera Temple

Kuramadera Temple is known as the place where Ushiwakamaru trained. The main hall, Kondo, and other buildings are scattered among the deep groves of trees, and the Kurama-san Reihouden is also located here. ...»

Ruriko-in Temple

Beautiful autumn leaves reflected on the tabletop

Known for the beautiful autumn leaves reflected on the polished floors and tables, the temple is visited by many people when it is open to the public in spring and fall. Originally built as a villa between the late Taisho and Showa eras, it is a 12,000 tsubo (about 1,860 square meters) site with a sukiya-style building and a Japanese garden. Later, the villa was converted into the Kizuru-tei, a ...»

Maruyama Park

The oldest park in the city and a favorite place of relaxation for the people of Kyoto

Established in 1886 (Meiji 19), it is the oldest park in Kyoto City. It is the oldest park in Kyoto City. The park is centered around a circular Japanese garden, and has a number of Japanese-style restaurants and teahouses, each with its own unique atmosphere depending on the season. It is also one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, and the nighttime cherry blossoms, including the ...»

Motoise Kono Shrine

The only large shrine on the San’in Road

Located at the foot of Mt. Nariai, Kono Shrine is a historic shrine that once served as the approach to Amanohashidate. It is said that the name "Motoise" came from a legend that Amaterasu and Toyoke, the deities dedicated to the Ise Jingu Shrine, were moved from this place to Ise. In front of the main shrine shines a five-colored Sedama, which is only allowed to be enshrined at Ise Jingu Shrine...»

Kasamatsu Park

A bridge spanning the heavens

This is one of the three most famous scenic spots in Japan, from which you can view Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. It is also said to be the birthplace of Amanohashidate's famous "crotch peeking.The name "Amanohashidate" comes from the fact that the bridge looks like a bridge spanning the heavens when viewed upside down....»

Kyoto Railway Museum

One of the largest railroad museums in Japan

This museum was established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the opening of the railroad. The museum preserves and exhibits 18 representative SL cars that were manufactured in Japan from the early Taisho era to the 1950s, and were in service in various parts of Japan until 1975, including 6 dynamically preserved cars.The museum also features a "fan-shaped garage" built in 1914 and a "former...»

Shouon-an Ikkyu-ji Temple Hojo Garden

This garden from the Edo period is a karesansui (dry landscape garden) with giant stones. The garden of Toragyuan, the residence of Ikkyu, was created by Murata Shuko in the Muromachi period. Muromachi Period ...»

Goro Sky Tower

The first place of the “Kinki 100 Sceneries” for its spectacular view

Goro-dake, located almost in the center of Maizuru and rising 301 meters above sea level,The 50-meter-high observation tower rises in Gorogadake Park, which stretches to the summit of the mountain. From the observation deck, 325 meters above sea level, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Maizuru Bay and the city of Maizuru along its beautiful rias coastline.The view from here was selected as t...»

Kenninji Temple

The first Zen temple in Kyoto. The temple is lined with pagodas and pagodas. The Wind God and Thunder God (national treasure) by Tawaraya Sotatsu is famous. Zen meditation and Dharma talks are held on the second Sunday of every month. ...»

Kodaiji Temple

A famous temple founded by Kita Masasho (Nene) to mourn the loss of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. ...»

Bishamondo Hall

Bishamondōdo is one of the five monasteries of the Tendai sect of Buddhism in Kyoto. The main deity is Bishamonden, one of the seven gods of good fortune in Kyoto. The cherry blossoms in spring and maple trees in autumn are beautiful....»

Nishi Honganji Temple (Onishi-san)

Onishi Honganji Temple is the head temple of the Honganji sect of Shinshu Jodo. This is a large temple with the main hall (Amida Hall), the Mikado (Daishi Hall), and other large buildings lined up and surrounded by a Tsukiji wall. The Karamon Gate, a national treasure, also known as "Nipporimon," is a must-see. The temple has many cultural assets, including national treasures and important cultura...»

Higashi Honganji Temple

Higashi Honganji Temple is the head temple of the Otani sect of Shinshu Buddhism, officially known as Shinshu Hongyo. It consists of two halls: the Mikado Hall, where a wooden statue of Shinran, the founder of the sect, is enshrined, and the Amida Hall, where the principal image of Yayoi Buddha is enshrined. The present building was rebuilt in 1895. It is known as one of the largest wooden structu...»

Kyoto Gyoen

The Kyoto Gyoen is located in the center of Kyoto City. The Kyoto Gyoen area, which stretches approximately 700 meters from east to west and 1,300 meters from north to south, was a lord's town with more than 200 mansions of various sizes during the Edo period (1603-1868).In 1869 (Meiji 2), after the capital was moved to Tokyo, Emperor Meiji, deeply saddened by the rapidly deteriorating condition o...»

Uzumasa Film Village

Transform yourself into a ninja, a samurai, or a town girl!

Uzumasa Movie Village is a movie town that has been called Japan's Hollywood, after the world's movie capital Hollywood, and can be called the "home of Japanese movies. The Toei Movie Theater Village was established in this area to "keep the lights of the movies burning". The amusement zone is based on the theme of movies, and visitors can watch powerful performances of actors on the open set of a...»

Chion-in Yuzen Garden

At 24 meters high, it is the largest gate in Japan! Sanmon Gate, a national treasure

The head temple of the Jodo sect. It stands on the site where Honen Shonin built a hermitage in Yoshimizu, where he began to propagate the Jodo sect and where he passed away. The temple is lined with a large temple complex, including the Mikageido and the large bell tower. The Sanmon Gate, a national treasure, is the largest in Japan. Date of construction: 1234 ...»

Jishu Shrine

A god of marriage believed in since ancient times

Located within the precincts of Kiyomizu Temple, the shrine is situated higher on Mount Kiyomizu (Mt. Otowa) than the Kiyomizu-no-butai (stage of Kiyomizu). It is a popular spot for young women and couples as a god of marriage.The two "love fortune-telling stones" on the temple grounds are famous. According to the shrine's legend, the shrine was founded in the Jindai period (before the founding ...»

Kyoto National Museum

The main building of the museum is designated as a national treasure. Tours are offered in the new wing, which displays the museum's collection as well as items deposited by temples and shrines. The garden is also beautiful, and exhibits include Rodin's The Thinker. ...»

Kotoin Temple

This temple was built by Hosokawa Sansai (Tadaoki), one of Sen no Rikyu's seven great philosophers, whose wife was Lady Galacha. There are many camellias and a shoin (study room) that was moved from the residence of Sen no Rikyu. In the garden of the main hall, there are lantern tombs of Tadaoki and his wife Garasha. Date of Establishment: 1601...»

Zenrinji Eikando Temple

Eikando is a hall connected by a corridor. The hall has been famous since ancient times for its autumn foliage, and is also famous for the Mikaikaidanyorai (Amida Nyorai), a statue of the Buddha. Date of construction: Early Heian period (794-1192)...»

Okochi Sanso Garden

The villa was built by Denjiro Okochi, a famous actor of the past, over a period of 30 years....»

Keage Incline

You can take a stroll on the railway line in the Meiji Period under the cherry blossoms in full bloom

The Keage Incline was built along the Biwako Sosui Canal near Nanzenji Temple.It is the site of an inclined railroad in the Meiji period, 582m long with a height difference of about 36m. The Biwako Sosui was built for the purpose of water wheel power, boat transportation, irrigation, and rice milling.The Keage Incline is an inclined railroad where boats were put on bogies and run on the railway l...»

The Museum of Kyoto (Kyoto Culture Museum)

Exhibitions of Kyoto's history, crafts, arts, folklore, archaeology, and visual materials...»

Yasui Konpiragu Shrine

Cut off bad marriages at the Enkiri-jinja Shrine

The shrine is known for its blessings for severing bad and good relationships, and is popularly known as "Enkiri Shrine" or "Yasui no Kompira-san. The "Enkiri Enmusubi Monument" within the shrine grounds is a giant stone in the shape of an ema (votive tablet), 1.5 meters high and 3 meters wide.The surface of the boulder is so covered with bills that one cannot see the surface of the stone as peop...»

Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

“Gekkeikan” in Fushimi, Kyoto - Enjoy a cup of sake at one of the three traditional sake breweries

Sake breweries can be seen everywhere in the town of Fushimi and are a symbol of the city. Among them, Gekkeikan boasts a long history. Near the head office of Gekkeikan is the Okura Memorial Museum, built in an earthen storehouse. The museum provides an easy-to-understand guide to the sake brewing process with video and display panels, and also exhibits tools used in sake brewing in the past. Vis...»

Nishiyama Yoshiminedera Temple

Yoshiminedera Temple is the 20th temple on the pilgrimage of the 33 sacred places in the western part of Japan. The temple is home to a five-leaf pine tree more than 600 years old and a natural monument, the Yuryu-matsu (dragon pine), which is 38 meters long. Date of construction: 11th century...»

The Tale of Genji Museum

Uji is the setting of the last ten chapters of the 54 chapters of "The Tale of Genji" written by Murasaki Shikibu. Uji has been loved as a place for aristocrats to do their other jobs since that time. The "Uji City Tale of Genji Museum," which opened in 1998, is the only museum in the world where visitors can become familiar with the Tale of Genji and the culture of the Heian period through recons...»

Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art

The Western-style building built between the Taisho and early Showa periods at the foot of Mt. Tennozan exhibits mainly ceramics by Kanjiro Kawai, Shoji Hamada, and Bernard Leach.The new wing, designed by Tadao Ando, features paintings such as Monet's "Waterlilies.The beautiful building, garden, and views are also a must-see....»

Shokokuji Temple

Shokokuji Temple is the head temple of the Shokokuji School of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism and the center of Zen Buddhism administration and Gozan literature. The coiling dragon painted on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall is known as the "Narukiryu (crying dragon). The Jotenkaku Art Museum houses a collection of paintings, calligraphy, and Buddhist statues from the Gozan culture and the best of ...»

Ujigami Shrine

Until the Meiji era (1868-1912), Ujigami Shrine was called "Rikyu-josha" in combination with the neighboring Uji Shrine. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Ojin, his son Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko, and his elder brother Emperor Nintoku. The hall of worship in front of the precincts dates back to the early Kamakura period and is in the shinden-zukuri style. The roof, which uses a technique known as "cling...»

Ryoan-ji Temple

A World Heritage Site known for its Hojo Garden, one of Kyoto’s most famous dry landscape gardens

Ryoan-ji Temple is a temple of the Myoshin-ji sect of the Rinzai Sect of Zen Buddhism, and is registered as a World Heritage Site as one of the "Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto.Hojo Garden," famous as Kyoto's representative dry landscape garden, is 25m wide and 10m deep, with 15 stones arranged in groups of 5, 2, 3, 2, and 3 on white sand, starting from the east. It is said that it is impossi...»

Kyoto City Museum of Art

In addition to city-sponsored public exhibitions and domestic and international special exhibitions, the museum serves as a rental venue for exhibitions by art organizations. The museum's collection consists of approximately 2,900 works of modern and contemporary Japanese art, mainly from Kyoto since the Meiji period. ...»

Okazaki Shrine

Rabbits here and there

Since the area around the shrine was once a habitat of wild rabbits, rabbits were regarded as messengers of the local deity, and stone statues of rabbits can be seen everywhere on the shrine grounds.  When the capital was moved from Nara to Kyoto in 794, the shrine was one of four built in the four directions of Heian-kyo for the protection of the royal castle. It is said to be the god of easy c...»

Komyouji Temple

Nioimon Gate, designated as a national treasure

Komyoji Temple is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku. The Nioimon Gate, the temple gate, was built in the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and is the only building in northern Kyoto Prefecture designated as a National Treasure. Nioimon GateThe Nioimon Gate is said to have been completed in 1248 (Houji 2), and is a double gate of the Japanese style rarely seen in the Kamakura period (1185-1333...»

Uji Shrine

Uji Shrine was formerly called Rikyu Hachimangu (Kirihara Higeta-no-miya). According to the Chronicles of Japan, the deity Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko was a tragic prince who entered the Uji River because of a conflict with his elder brother Prince Osazaki (later Emperor Nintoku) over the imperial throne. The main shrine is from the Kamakura period. Other valuable cultural assets such as wooden guardian d...»

Kyoto Aquarium

The enigmatic Giant Salamander, a natural treasure, is right in front of you!

The first aquarium in Japan to use only artificial seawater,One of the largest inland aquariums in Japan, with three floors. The aquarium features a 6-meter-high large tank representing the Sea of Japan, the Kyoto Satoyama Zone that recreates the original landscape of Japan, and a dolphin stadium that doubles as a performance space, all of which are carefully designed to let visitors feel the nat...»

Rurikei River

A valley where a clear stream flows through strange rocks and monstrous stones. Designated as a national scenic beauty and a prefectural natural park....»

Kyoto Tower

The tower is 131 meters high, named after the population of Kyoto City of 1.31 million at that time, and was designed in the image of a lighthouse. The 131-meter-high tower, built in December 1964, is the symbol in front of Kyoto Station and the tallest building in Kyoto City....»

Umekoji Park, Suzaku Garden

Built to commemorate the 1200th anniversary of the founding of the Heian Capital. The garden features a pond garden and a green pavilion. ...»

Seimei Shrine

A power spot dedicated to Seimei Abe, a yin-yang master of the Heian period (794-1192)

Seimei Shrine is located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto. The shrine enshrines Abe no Seimei, an Onmyoji (astronomer) of the mid-Heian period, and is visited by many people as a power spot steeped in numerous Seimei legends.Seimei, who served six emperors, established his own "Onmyo-do" based on the astronomical calendar science of the time. He made many fortunes and predictions, such as predicting the abdic...»

Daigoji Temple Sanpoin

Daigoji Temple is divided into two parts, Upper and Lower Daigo, and is an imperial temple of Emperor Daigo. The temple was named after the water that gushes out in the mountain. The five-story pagoda, a national treasure, is the oldest in Kyoto. Sanboin is the main temple of Daigoji. The grand and magnificent garden was designed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Date of foundation: 1115 *Daigoji 874...»

Shorenin Monzeki

This is one of the three monzeki monasteries of Enryakuji Temple, a Tendai sect monzeki temple. It is one of the three monzeki of Enryakuji Temple. It is deeply connected with the imperial family and was once used as a temporary imperial palace, so it has high prestige. The huge camphor tree and the garden are magnificent. Date of construction: Heian period (794-1192) ...»

Kyoto City Zoo

Opened in 1903 as the second zoo in Japan. It has about 130 species of animals and 500 exhibits. It is also called Okazaki Zoo because of its location in Okazaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto. It is also known for having many of Japan's first breeding cases....»

The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto

The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto is located in a corner of Okazaki Park, across from the Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. The collection includes approximately 950 Japanese paintings, 550 Western paintings, 430 ceramic works by Kanjiro Kawai, and a collection of approximately 1,000 European and American photographs. ...»

Kyoto Botanical Garden

The botanical garden is composed with emphasis on natural vegetation, including seasonal flowers and grasses, an arboretum with hundreds of species of perennial grasses, and a natural forest. 100,000 plants of about 11,000 species are planted. Botanical and horticultural consultations are held every Wednesday.' In the fall of 1991, one of the largest greenhouses in Japan was completed. ...»

Myoshinji Temple

Myoshin-ji Temple is the head temple of the Myoshin-ji School of the Rinzai Sect of Zen Buddhism. The temple was originally Hagiwaradono, a detached palace of Emperor Hanazono. The temple has seven halls and 46 temples in the pagoda, and many important cultural properties, gardens designated as historic sites and places of scenic beauty, and temple treasures are preserved here. Date of Establishme...»

Mimuroto-ji Temple

Mimuroto-ji Temple is a separate head temple of the head temple Shugen sect, said to have been founded about 1,200 years ago. The temple is the tenth stop on the pilgrimage to the 33 temples of the Saigoku region, a belief in the Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) that spread from the Heian period (794-1185) and is still visited by many people today. Many of the Buddhist paintings and statues in the collec...»

Shisendo Temple (Jozan-ji)

This is the site of the villa where Ishikawa Jozan lived in seclusion. The name comes from the Shisen Hall, where portraits of the 36 Chinese poets by Kano Tanyu are displayed. It is now a Soto Zen temple....»

Murin-an Japanese Garden

Murinan Garden is the garden of the villa of Aritomo Yamagata, who was a former leader of the Meiji era. The garden was created by Ogawa Jihei (Ueji) VII, and is designated as a national place of scenic beauty as a famous garden of the Meiji era. Construction Date2] 1895 ...»

Konkai Komyoji Temple

Kurodani-san

Known as Kurodani-san, this is the main temple of the Jodo sect. The temple was originally built by Honen Shonin, a Buddhist priest who descended from Mt. It is said to be the birthplace of the Shinsengumi, the Shinsengumi, since it served as the headquarters of the Aizu clan's Kyoto guardianship at the end of the Edo period, and Isamu Kondo and others were assigned to it. There is also a memorial...»

Nison-in Temple

The name "Nison-in" comes from the fact that two statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and Amida Nyorai are enshrined as the principal image of the temple. The temple grounds occupy the eastern foot of Mt. Construction Date: Heian Period (794-1192)...»

Shinsho Gokurakuji Temple Shinnyodo Hall

The main hall, three-story pagoda, and front gate stand side by side. The six scrolls of the Lotus Sutra, a national treasure, are known as the wish sutras of Buddhist priest Unkei. The temple is also famous for its autumn foliage. Date of Establishment: 984...»

Rokuharamitsuji Temple

Originating from Saiko-ji Temple, Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple houses many excellent Buddhist statues, including the national treasures, the main image of the eleven-faced Kannon, Kuya Shonin, and Taira no Kiyomori. It is the 17th temple on the pilgrimage of the 33 sacred places in the western part of Japan. Date of Establishment: 963...»

Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine

Located at the eastern end of Nishiki Market, the kitchen of Kyoto, Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine is called Nishiki no Tenjin-san. The shrine is well known for its blessings for good luck in academics, protection from bad luck, and prosperous business....»

Kajuji Temple

Kajuji Temple was built by Emperor Daigo as a place of prayer. The main hall, shoin (study room), shinkinden (Imperial Hall), and other halls were given to the temple by the imperial family. The garden is a place of scenic beauty designated by Kyoto City....»

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (Iwatayama Nature Amusement Park)

Overlooking Kyoto City! Play with cute monkeys in the monkey mountain with a spectacular view!

Wild monkeys are kept in the park, and 300 monkeys are established in the first and second feeding areas. Area: 6.6 ha ...»

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Tongu

The shrine pavilion where rituals are held

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine (national treasure) is located on top of Otokoyama (143 meters above sea level), southwest of the Kyoto basin,The main shrine building, Tongu, is located at the foot of the mountain. This Tongu is the waiting place for the portable shrines during festivals, and is equivalent to an Otabisho at other shrines. After being destroyed by fire during the Battle of Toba-Fush...»

Arashiyama Hanatouro

The "bamboo grove path" from Nomiya Shrine to Okochi Sanso Garden, the Watarigetsu Bridge, the foot of the mountains, the waterfront, and the surrounding area, as well as the natural and historical cultural heritage of Saga and Arashiyama, will be transformed into a fantastic space with approximately 2,500 open-air lanterns and other "lights". In the "Ikebana Promenade," created with the cooperat...»

Nariasan (Mt. Nariai)

On the hillside, there is Kusamatsu Park, known for the Amanohashidate crotch peepers. There is an observatory at the top of the mountain, from which a panoramic view of Miyazu Bay can be enjoyed. It is also accessible by car. There is a parking lot (fee required) and restrooms....»

Gorogatake Park

Gorogatake Park is a scenic spot with a panoramic view of Maizuru Bay. From the Goro Sky Tower, a 360-degree panoramic view of Maizuru City can be seen....»

Nanzenji Temple

The most prestigious Zen temple in Japan

It is the most prestigious Zen temple in Japan and is located in one of the five mountains of Kyoto. It is treated as a special temple and has a beautiful array of halls and pagodas, including the famous Sanmon Gate, which is famous for the legend of Ishikawa Goemon. The Hojo Garden is known as "Toranoko-no-Furashi" created by Enshu Kobori, and is a typical dry landscape garden of the early Edo p...»

Murin-an

Masterpiece of modern Japanese garden

Murinan is the villa of Aritomo Yamagata, which was built over a period of three years from 1894 (27th year of Meiji). Murinan, located just west of Nanzenji Temple, is a masterpiece of Kyoto, consisting of a vast garden and three beautiful buildings: the main building, a Western-style house, and a tea ceremony house. The garden is a pond garden with bright lawn and Biwako Canal, and is consider...»

Tanba Chestnut

Kyoto Kaiseki

Yellowtail Shabu-Shabu (Ine)

Obanzai

light Kyoto-style home cooking with boiled vegetables and marinated food, also now served in restaurants

Kyoto Ramen

Hamo (daggertooth pike conger) no Otoshi

A dish that only can be made by alive hamo (pike conger). A standard summer hamo dish that looks refreshing

“Hamo no Honekiri (cutting the bones of pike conger)” can only be done by well trained cooks in Kyoto restaurants. “Hamo no otoshi” is the standard dish where hamo after honekiri is boiled instantly and taken out. Hamo is an elegant fish with no strong taste, but it contains so many small bones that it cannot be eaten without the honekiri procedure. Honekiri is done by using a special knife and cu...»

Boiled Tofu

Bread (Kyoto)

Miyazu Curry Yakisoba

Cha Soba

The rich fragrance of green tea spreads in your mouth after the smooth texture

This is a kind of noodles original of Uji, a place famous for its tea, made only with soba (buckwheat) powder (sarashina powder), flour, Uji matcha (green tea), and a little bit of salt. Special care is given not only in selecting the best matcha but also in the mixing ratio of soba powder and flour, and the manufacturing procedure of dried noodles also. The tea noodles with no additives and no ar...»

Senmaizuke (Pickled Sliced Radishes)

An elegant pickled food, just like the quiet beauty “hannari” of Kyoto

This is a specialty pickled food of Kyoto, which thinly sliced Shogoin turnips are salted and pickled with seasonings such as mirin. Its origin dates back to more than a hundred years ago, when a person called Tozaburo Ohfuji, who was a servant of the Imperial Palace, first made this food with ideas from pickled turnips called“obanagawazuke”. He searched around for the best seasonings, flavor, pic...»

Suzume (Sparrow) Yaki (Kyoto)

Eel Kinshi Donburi

Kyoto-Style Zoni

Pickled Suguki (Radish)

Bara Sushi

Heshiko of mackerel (Ine)

Gurajiru

The winter taste of Tango and Japanese clear soup from GURA. A body is in a blunder blunder by the soup made TORO.

I tell a formal name to the fish called GURA (or, GUBI) with "roe Chinese milk vetch" by Kyoto and Tango Peninsula and am landed by dragnet fishing with snow crab at winter Tango Peninsula. The surface is gelatin matter and that the one which is being done with NURU cooks it by the feature, the food texture gelatin matter melted, and which was made TORO is the intolerable taste. The typical local ...»

Kokutan Burger

The black bun will give you an impression. Fried sawara and tartar sauce make an amazing combination

“Kokutan burger” is a local burger of Kyotango, Kyoto. The buns with rice powder and bamboo charcoal powder kneaded inside have a springy texture, and the black appearance will be a surprise. Between the buns there are fragrant deep fried Spanish mackerel, vegetables like tomatoes and homemade tartar sauce, creating a greatly balanced flavor. The ingredients are all carefully selected, with Specia...»

Kamo Eggplant Dengaku

Awafu

The traditional recipe creates the elegant

Mix flour and water and knead well, wash off the starch, extract the gluten, add glutinous rice powder and steam or boil. This is the method of making “namafu”. “Awafu” is a product with millet added during the process of making the dough of this namafu. It adds a good crispy texture to the original soft and springy texture of namafu. It can be eaten in any ways such as dengaku (baked and coated w...»

Dancing Eats Isaza Goby

Kyoto-Style Pickles

Imobo

Guji Kaburamushi

The sticky paste and soft guji fish make the best combination

Kaburamushi is a representative obanzai (Kyoto-style home cooking) of winter. This dish uses guji (tilefish) and Shogoin turnip as its main ingredients. Turnip is grated and mixed with the white of an egg, steamed together with guji, ginkgo nuts, Jew’s ear mushroom and lily bulb, and topped with 銀あん(clear soy sauce based paste).The sticky paste tangle well with soft guji, and it warms your body in...»

Kyoto Shabushabu

Shabushabu of a famous restaurant with the highest grade

“Junidanya”, known for inventing shabushabu, is the most famous shabushabu restaurant in Kyoto Gion. High quality beef such as Omi beef or Matsuzaka beef are not merely served here, but they select the best beef of the day among those beef and serve in order for their customers to be satisfied till the very last bite. Not only Junidanya but several other restaurants in Gion also serve first class ...»

Shibazuke (Famous Pickles in Japan)

Maizuru Nikujaga

A representative dish with the taste of mother’s cooking. It’s origin is in the navy

Nikujaga, a standard homemade dish has its origins in Maizuru. In 1901 when Heihachiro Togo, then the first Commander-in-Chief of the Maizuru Navy Base could not forget the taste of beef stew from when he studied in the UK for 7 years and ordered his cook to make “amani (sweet stew)”, namely, “nikujaga”, with Japanese seasonings such as sugar and soy sauce. Nikujaga, a tasty and nutritious dish th...»

Morning Rice Gruel

Pressed Sushi with Mackerel Sushi

Kyoto-Style Udon

Tsutsugawa Soba

“Tsutsukawa soba”, an orthodox handmade specialty of Tsutsukawa with the fragrant of original soba

Soba (buckwheat) is commonly grown in Tsutsugawa, the mountainous area of Ine cho, located at the northernmost end of Tango peninsula, Kyoto. Firm, high-quality soba is grown because of the abundant subsoil water and the temperature difference within a day. Soba used to be made in general households a long time ago, but nowadays it is rare to see, and an effort has been made to preserve the cultur...»

Vegetarian Cuisine (Kyoto)

Extremely Hot Dish

Konoshiro Sushi

Oil Sardine (Kyoto)

Chirimen Sansho (Kyoto)

Rice Boiled with Chestnuts

Noma Soba

A fragrant soba grown in the cold mountains of 600m high in the center of Tango Peninsula

In 2004, Minayama cho, Ohmiya cho, Amino cho, Tango cho, Yasakae cho and Kumihama cho were consolidated into one city called Kyotango city. The city spreads from the Western side of the Tango Peninsular to the mountainous part, with an area of 502 square kilometers, which makes the city the third largest in Kyoto. Noma area, Yasakaecho, located in the center of the city, is a small village of arou...»

Saikyoduke (fish pickled in sweet Kyoto-style miso)

Teppatsu Dishes

Vegetarian dish to pass on the spirit of zen, imitating the round bowls used by mendicant monks

Tetsubachi are the round metal bowls used by mendicant monks to receive food inside. All bowls except for some made of ceramic can be piled up into one bowl with a lid to cover everything, which signify function and Japanese aesthetics put together. Tetsubachi originate in India, imported to Japan during the Nara era, and were used by takuhatsu (mendicant) monks. Tetsubachi dishes is a kind of mod...»

Pickled Rape Blossoms

Nonbara Konnyaku

Teoke Bento

Tanba matsutake mushroom (Kyoto)

Kyoto-style Yuba

Dainagon Adzuki Bean

Fushimi Chili Pepper

Tanba Black Soybeans

Kamo Eggplant

Kujo Negi (Leek from Kujo)

Shogoin Daikon (Radish)

Ebi Imo (Prawns Potato)

Shogoin Turnip

Horikawa Burdock Root

Mibuna

Nanzenji Tofu

Tango Dune Sweet Potato

Namafu

Kyoto Bamboo Shoots

Purple Zukin (Edamame)

Kumihama Dune Tomato

Shizukagozen (Dune Radish)

Winter Melon from Kyoto

Kintoki Carrot from Kyoto

Tofu (Kyoto)

Kyo-Kanzashi (Kintoki Carrot)

Hanana

Manganji Chili Pepper

Kyoto Mizuna (Potherb Mustard)

Kyoto Small Turnip

Taiza Crab (Queen Crab)

Cold Yellowtail from Ine

Miyazu Mussel

Gura (Noro-Genge Deep-Sea Fish)

Tango Sazae

Oyster from Kumihama

Spanish Mackerel from Tango

Tango Guji (Red Ama-Dai)

Bo-Dara (Dried Japanese Cod)

Isaza (Whitebait) from Miyazu

Ayu from Kyoto

Iwagaki (rock oyster) from Maizuru

Kyoto Saba (mackerel)

Wakame seaweed from Kyoto

Dunes Melon

Kotobiki Melon

Kyoto Hamo (daggertooth pike conger)

Kameoka Beef

Nigisu from Tango

Tango Akagarei ((Flathead flounder)

Yura Mandarin Orange

Grapes from Tango

Dune Egg (Watermelon)

Hakurei Shuzo Hakurei (Japanese sake)

Mukai Shuzo Ine Mankai Kyo no Haru (Sake)

Kyo-Tango Pear

Kyohime Junmai Daiginjo Takumi (Sake)

Kizakura Beer White Nile

Local Sake from Tango

Tamanohikari Junmai Ginjyo Sanpai Tradition Japanese Sake

Kinoshita Shuzo Tamagawa (Sake)

Tango Kura Kyoto Sweet Potato Shochu liqueur imotan

Takeno Shuzo Yasakatsuru egao hyakuyaku (Sake)

Kumano Shuzo Kumi no Ura (Sake)

Yosamusume Sake Brewery Yosamusume (Sake)

Saito Shuzo Eikun (Sake)

Tamanohikari Junmai Ginjo KARAKUCHI (Japanese Sake)

Shirasugi Shuzo Shirakiku (Japanese Sake)

Kyoto Tango Craft Beer Tango Kingdom Beer

Amanohashidate Wine

Green Tea Dumpling (Kyoto)

Ajari-mochi

Uji Green Tea

Yojiya’s Handmade Monaka

Grand Marble Marble Danish (Maple Caramel)

Kougetsu Senju Senbei

Incense store Owariya Kaorimaru

FU Manju, FU Rice Cake

Wako Choga Senbei (Waffle)

Kaden Kyoto Candy - Gion Koishi - Gion Candy Chronicles

Tsubame (Swallow) Sauce

Shinshindo Rakuchu Grain Anpan

Bamboo Crafts (Arashiyama, Kyoto)

Demachi Futaba "Mame-mochi" (bean mochi rice cake)

Rice Cake Stuffed with Wisdom

Warabi-mochi (Kyoto)

Tsuji Rihei Honten "Fresh Uji Green Tea Daifuku"

Soy sauce (Tango)

Harema Chirimen Sansho

Tai senbei (sea bream cracker) Kumihama Bay

Kintsuba (Tango)

Handbag (with Clasp)

Nakamura Tokichi Honten "Nakamura Tea"

Suguki

Kyoto-Style Miso

Kyoto tsukemono Nishikari "Senmaizuke", "Lightly-pickled radish"

Kougetsuan "Bamboo shoots rice base"

Kougetsuan "Bamboo shoots rice base"

Otabe Nama-yatsuhashi with sweet bean paste

Honda Miso "Ichi-wan Misoshiru" (one bowl miso soup)

Honkuzu Sasa-mochi (bamboo grass cake) by Wako

Shogoin Yatsuhashi "Hijiri" (raw yatsuhashi with sweet bean paste)

Ginger Candy (Kyoto)

Fuji Vinegar by Iio Brewery

Kinobiki Salt

Dintora Kyo Shichimi

Kyoto-Style Fresh Confectionery

Kanshundo Chaju no Utsuwa

Kyo Baum

Matcha Sweets

Tofu Sweets

Tango Jersey Ranch Cheese Cake

Detchi Yokan

Sightseeing and travel guide for Kyoto

Certainly! Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, souvenirs, and more for sightseeing and traveling in Kyoto, Japan:

Sightseeing:
1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

2. Fushimi Inari Taisha: Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that lead up to Mount Inari. Take a leisurely hike through the trails and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

3. Kiyomizu-dera: Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple known for its wooden terrace that offers breathtaking views of Kyoto. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the traditional architecture.

Dining:
1. Kaiseki Cuisine: Experience Kyoto's famous kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal featuring seasonal and beautifully presented dishes. Look for traditional kaiseki restaurants in Kyoto for an authentic dining experience.

2. Nishiki Market: Explore Nishiki Market, a bustling food market in Kyoto. Sample local street food, fresh seafood, and traditional Kyoto snacks as you stroll through the vibrant market.

Lodging:
1. Ryokans: Stay at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, for an immersive cultural experience. Enjoy the comfort of tatami rooms, hot spring baths, and exquisite kaiseki meals.

Hot Springs:
1. Arashiyama Onsen: Relax in the soothing hot springs of Arashiyama Onsen, located in the scenic Arashiyama district. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while soaking in the healing waters.

Activities:
1. Tea Ceremony Experience: Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where you can learn about the art of tea preparation and enjoy the serene atmosphere of a tea house.

2. Kimono Rental and Stroll: Rent a kimono and explore Kyoto's historic districts while dressed in traditional attire. Visit popular sights and capture memorable photos.

Souvenirs:
1. Matcha Green Tea: Purchase high-quality matcha green tea from Kyoto, known for its superior taste and quality. Look for specialty tea shops or tea houses for a wide selection.

2. Traditional Crafts: Kyoto is renowned for its traditional crafts such as pottery, textiles, and lacquerware. Consider purchasing Kyoto-made ceramics, silk products, or lacquerware as souvenirs.

These are just a few recommendations to explore in Kyoto. Make sure to check the operating hours and availability of attractions, as well as any travel restrictions or guidelines in place during your visit. Kyoto offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and culinary delights for you to discover and enjoy!

Kyoto Gourmet and Souvenir Guide

Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, offers a wealth of specialties, local foods, renowned restaurants, and unique souvenirs. Here's a detailed overview to enhance your visit to Kyoto:

Specialties and Local Foods:
1. Kaiseki Ryori: Kyoto is famous for its traditional multi-course kaiseki meals. These meticulously prepared meals showcase the seasonal ingredients and flavors of Kyoto, offering a culinary journey that reflects the essence of Japanese cuisine.

2. Yudofu: Yudofu is a simple yet delicious Kyoto specialty made of soft tofu simmered in a flavorful kombu (kelp) broth. It's a popular vegetarian option that highlights the delicate flavors of tofu.

3. Matcha: Kyoto is renowned for its matcha green tea. Enjoy matcha in various forms, such as matcha-flavored sweets, matcha tea ceremonies, or matcha-infused beverages like matcha lattes or matcha soft serve ice cream.

Popular Restaurants:
1. Kikunoi (Higashiyama): Kikunoi is a highly regarded kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, known for its exquisite dishes and elegant atmosphere. It offers traditional kaiseki meals prepared with seasonal ingredients.

2. Gion Sasaki (Gion): Gion Sasaki is a popular restaurant specializing in yudofu. It offers a serene and authentic dining experience, serving various tofu-based dishes in a traditional setting.

Souvenirs:
1. Kyoto Ceramics: Kyoto is famous for its pottery and ceramics. Look for Kiyomizu-yaki, a style of pottery known for its hand-painted designs and delicate craftsmanship. You can find tea sets, sake cups, vases, and other ceramics as souvenirs.

2. Kyoto Textiles: Kyoto is also known for its traditional textiles, such as Nishijin-ori silk and Yuzen-dyeing fabrics. Consider purchasing beautifully designed scarves, kimonos, or accessories made with these exquisite textiles.

3. Furoshiki: Furoshiki are traditional Japanese wrapping cloths used for carrying and wrapping items. Kyoto is known for its intricate and elegant furoshiki designs. They make practical and eco-friendly souvenirs.

4. Kyoto Sweets: Kyoto has a rich tradition of wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets. Look for beautifully crafted sweets like yokan (sweet bean jelly), dorayaki (red bean pancake), or matcha-flavored confections.

Remember to explore the historic districts of Kyoto, visit ancient temples and gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the city. Enjoy your trip and the culinary delights and unique souvenirs that Kyoto has to offer!

Seasonal festivals and events in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital, is renowned for its historic temples, traditional arts, and enchanting festivals. Here are some prominent festivals and events in Kyoto during each season:

1. Spring:
- Kyoto Cherry Blossom Festival: During cherry blossom season, various parks and temples in Kyoto host illuminations and events. Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, and Arashiyama are popular spots for cherry blossom viewing.
- Miyako Odori: Held annually in April at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater, this traditional dance event showcases the elegance and grace of Kyoto's geisha and maiko. It features beautiful costumes, music, and dance performances.

2. Summer:
- Gion Matsuri: Kyoto's most famous festival takes place throughout July. The highlight is the Yamaboko Junko parade on July 17th, featuring massive wooden floats adorned with intricate tapestries. Festivities include street stalls, traditional performances, and lively processions.
- Daimonji Gozan Okuribi: On August 16th, five giant bonfires shaped like Chinese characters and symbols are lit on the mountains surrounding Kyoto. This event marks the end of the Obon festival and offers a captivating spectacle.

3. Fall:
- Jidai Matsuri: On October 22nd, the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) showcases Kyoto's rich history with a grand procession. Over 2,000 people dressed in period costumes parade from the Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine.
- Arashiyama Hanatouro: Held in December, this event illuminates the Arashiyama bamboo grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and other scenic spots with enchanting light displays. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the area at night.

4. Winter:
- To-ji Temple Flea Market: On the 21st of each month, except in December, To-ji Temple hosts a large flea market called "Kōbō-san." It offers a variety of antiques, clothes, and food stalls, attracting locals and tourists alike.
- Hatsumode: Hatsumode refers to the first shrine or temple visit of the year. Popular shrines like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera Temple attract crowds of visitors seeking blessings and participating in traditional New Year rituals.

Special features:
- Kyoto is known for its exquisite traditional arts, such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and Zen meditation. Many temples and cultural centers offer workshops and demonstrations for visitors to experience these arts firsthand.
- The city's historical landmarks, including Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari Taisha, are enchanting year-round and often host special events, illuminations, or performances during festivals.
- Kyoto is a culinary delight, renowned for its refined kaiseki cuisine, matcha tea, and traditional sweets. Exploring the city's food culture is a must, whether through tea ceremonies, visiting Nishiki Market, or trying local Kyoto-style dishes.

Remember to check the specific dates and details of festivals and events when planning your visit to Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the city's timeless beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant festival atmosphere. Enjoy your sightseeing in Kyoto!

Temperature and weather conditions in Kyoto

Kyoto, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning temples. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Kyoto during each season:

1. Spring (March to May):
Spring in Kyoto is a popular time to visit due to the beautiful cherry blossoms. The city comes alive with vibrant pink hues as the sakura bloom. The average temperature in spring ranges from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), but it can vary. It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

2. Rainy Season (June to mid-July):
During the rainy season, known as "tsuyu" in Japanese, Kyoto experiences increased rainfall and higher humidity. The temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F). It's recommended to bring an umbrella or raincoat to stay dry during outdoor activities.

3. Summer (mid-July to September):
Summers in Kyoto are hot and humid. The average temperatures range from 28°C (82°F) to 35°C (95°F), with occasional spikes above 35°C (95°F). It's important to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear light, breathable clothing when exploring outdoor attractions. Kyoto hosts various summer festivals and events, including the Gion Matsuri in July.

4. Fall (October to November):
Autumn in Kyoto is a spectacular season known for its vibrant foliage, called "koyo" in Japanese. The city's temples and gardens are adorned with shades of red, orange, and yellow. The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), offering pleasant weather for sightseeing.

5. Winter (December to February):
Winters in Kyoto are relatively mild, although temperatures can drop. The average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 12°C (54°F). It's recommended to wear warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat, to stay comfortable during outdoor activities. Kyoto's winter illuminations add a magical touch to the city's temples and streets.

Special features:
1. Historic Temples: Kyoto is home to numerous historic temples, including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), and Kiyomizu-dera. These architectural marvels showcase traditional Japanese design and offer serene settings for contemplation and exploration.

2. Fushimi Inari Taisha: This iconic Shinto shrine is famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that form pathways leading up Mount Inari. Visitors can hike through the gates and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Located in the Arashiyama district, this bamboo grove is a tranquil retreat. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks creates a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.

4. Geisha District: Kyoto's Gion district is known for its geisha culture and historic streets. Visitors may catch a glimpse of geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) dressed in traditional attire.

5. Kyoto Cuisine: Kyoto is renowned for its traditional and refined cuisine. Be sure to try Kyoto-style kaiseki (multi-course meal), matcha (green tea) sweets, and other local delicacies.

Kyoto offers a blend of ancient traditions, architectural beauty, and natural wonders. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning landmarks, it's a captivating destination for sightseeing and immersing oneself in Japanese history and culture.

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